In-ground sensors continuously monitor each vehicle that passes. If a vehicle is going faster than a pre-established speed, or if the vehicle enters an intersection after the signal has turned red, the sensors trigger a high-resolution camera system. The multiple-camera system records separate still images of the vehicle and its rear license place, along with video of the incident. Data about the incident-including location, date, time, speed limit, lane, vehicle speed, elapsed time, and other details-is imprinted on each citation.

The system uses public key cryptology and additional encryption processes to protect the image evidence from alteration.

The law requires drivers to come to a complete stop before proceeding into an intersection to make a right turn on red. Drivers who roll past the stop bar without bringing the vehicle to a full stop may be ticketed by either a police patrol officer or a red light camera.

Before a ticket is ever issued, the violation is reviewed multiple times by trained technicians to ensure a clear violation has occurred. An El Mirage police officer then provides the final authorization after carefully reviewing the photographs and video evidence of each incident. When justified, a summons is sent by mail to owners of the violating vehicles. The registered owner then has the option to pay the ticket, contest the citation in a hearing, or show proof he or she was not the driver at the time of the incident. The process is similar to the hearing process afforded to drivers issued a summons by a patrol officer.

A user-friendly web site, www.photonotice.com, allows many drivers to take a moment to acknowledge and correct their driving habits, the ultimate goal of the photo enforcement program. To access violation images, video of the incident and to pay fines online, visit and enter the citation number, license plate number, and the El Mirage code that is listed on your citation.

Motorists agree to abide by all traffic laws when they obtain a driver’s license. Photo enforcement cameras are posted in public areas and are clearly marked to ensure citizens are aware of their presence. Then only vehicles driven by motorists suspected of violating the law are photographed.